Reece Walsh and the Broncos might be the NRL’s biggest show in town, but even they’ve been upstaged by global megastar Ed Sheeran.

Brisbane’s home ground, Suncorp Stadium, has been booked out for the same weekend as the proposed World Club Challenge, forcing the premiers to take their clash with Hull KR overseas.

The showdown between the NRL and Super League champions is now set to be played in England in February 2026 – 16,000 kilometres away from home.

It’s a blow for Broncos fans hoping to see their team chase another title at Suncorp, but the club insists the overseas trip will only add to their growing international appeal.

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Sheeran show forces venue change

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy confirmed that Ed Sheeran’s February 20 concert had made it impossible to host the World Club Challenge in Brisbane.

“We think the opportunity to chase another trophy will be motivating for the whole club,” Donaghy said.

“We are having really productive discussions with Hull at the moment and hope we can finalise those soon.

“We looked at inviting Hull here, however with them competing in the Las Vegas concept next year it would have been challenging.

“As it turns out, it will be packed anyway with plenty of concert goers attending Ed Sheeran.”

English venues under consideration

With the Suncorp option ruled out, Elland Road in Leeds and Hull’s MKM Stadium have emerged as the frontrunners to host the game.

Wembley was considered but deemed too large, with concerns that the 90,000-seat venue could look half-empty.

Ironically, Sheeran himself hails from Halifax – just a short distance from both potential stadiums.

Broncos going global

The match is slated for February 19 or 20 (UK time), giving Hull KR time to recover before their Las Vegas clash against Leeds on February 28.

The Broncos haven’t featured in a World Club Challenge since 2007, but coach Michael Maguire and the club’s management are determined to make it happen this time.

“It’s a really unique and appealing concept for the champions of the northern and southern hemisphere competitions to play against each other,” Donaghy said.

“For multiple reasons, it’s been cancelled three times in the last five years.

“On the back of the Kangaroos being over there for their tour against England, we feel there will be a strong interest in the game and our club.”